HELENA – Montana’s two-day, youth-only deer hunt is coming up Oct. 19 and 20, and general deer season opens Oct. 21. Now is a good time to consider signing up for the Apprentice Hunter Program. 

The apprentice hunter program allows people ages 10 and older to hunt as apprentices with a mentor for two seasons without completing a Hunter Education course. 

Fish, Wildlife & Parks highly recommends that interested people visit the website at fwp.mt.gov and read the packet on the Apprentice Hunter Program before seeking certification. The packet outlines guidelines for both the apprentice and the required mentor, including what apprentices can and cannot do, who can act as a mentor and how the certification process works. Reading up on it beforehand may prevent possible confusion and save people from making an extra trip. 

Some key details to note: 
• Certification can be done at an FWP office; forms can be downloaded ahead of time from the website. Certification can also be done by mailing the form to licensing, but the process takes longer. 
• A person must be certified before purchasing appropriate licenses, which will then show apprentice status.  
• There are limited license opportunities available for nonresidents. Nonresident youth (under age 18) may qualify for an over-the-counter general combination license that requires a separate form and payment to be completed at an FWP office or by mail. Nonresidents ages 18 or older do not qualify for an over-the-counter general combination license, but there are opportunities to purchase unlimited over-the-counter deer b and elk b licenses in certain areas of the state. 
• Licenses for an apprentice under 18 can be purchased by a parent or relative as long as they present a copy of the parent’s drivers license, along with a completed Apprentice Certification Form. 
• A youth need not accompany the adult to certify as an apprentice, but he or she does need to fill out paperwork and understand the guidelines.  
• The last four digits of the youth hunter’s social security number is required; be sure to have this information. 

An apprentice MUST: 
• Be at least 10 years old at the time of license purchase. 
• Fill out a certification form at an FWP office and pay a $5 certificate fee (forms available online at fwp.mt.gov). 
• Hunt with a certified mentor who is at least 21 and who has completed Hunter Education if born after Jan. 1, 1985. 
• Have the appropriate current Montana hunting licenses for the species being hunted; the licenses must show that he/she is Apprentice Hunter certified. 
• Stay within sight of the non-hunting mentor at all times. 
An apprentice MAY: 
• Be a resident or nonresident. 
• Obtain apprentice certification for no more than two license years before he or she must complete a hunter safety and education course. 
• Purchase general elk, general deer, deer b, elk b, turkey and upland bird licenses, depending on the age and residency status of the apprentice hunter as well as the availability of the specific license. 

An apprentice is NOT ELIGIBLE to: 
• Obtain a special bow and arrow license without first completing a Bowhunter Education course (must be 11 years old to take bow ed) and be 12 years old or turning 12 by January 16 of the upcoming year. 
• Obtain a resident hound training license for chasing mountain lion. 
• Participate in a hunting license or permit drawing with a limited quota. 
• Obtain any bighorn sheep, black bear, mountain lion or wolf license. 
• Obtain an elk license if under 15 years of age. 

A mentor MUST: 
• Be 21 or older. 
• If the apprentice is under 18, the mentor must be related to the apprentice by blood, adoption or marriage; or be the apprentice’s legal guardian or be designated by the apprentice’s legal guardian.  
• Have completed Hunter Education if born after Jan. 1, 1985. 
• Have a current Montana hunting license. 
• Complete the Apprentice Hunter Mentor form and carry the form in the field.  
• Agree to accompany and supervise the apprentice hunter and remain within sight of and direct voice contact with the apprentice at all times while in the field. 
• Confirm that the apprentice possesses the physical and psychological capacity to safely and ethically engage in hunting activities. 

Hey there, music lovers! Have you ever thought about becoming a tribute act to your favorite artist? Well, if you're a big fan of Ed Sheeran, you're in for a treat. In this article, we're going to show you how to step into the shoes of the famous singer himself and become a tribute act. It's going to be fun, exciting, and maybe even a little bit challenging, but we promise to keep it simple and easy to understand. So, let's dive right into the world of tribute acts and learn how to pay homage to Ed Sheeran!

Who is Ed Sheeran?

Before we dive into becoming like Ed Sheeran, let's learn about him. Ed Sheeran is a very popular singer and songwriter from the UK. He makes songs that stick in your head, writes lyrics that touch your heart, and plays the guitar like a wizard. People from all over the globe adore his music, and he has lots of fans. Ed Sheeran wasn't always a superstar. He began playing guitar and singing when he was just a kid. He practiced a lot and got really good at it. He even learned to write his own songs.

Ed Sheeran has made so many amazing songs that you've probably heard on the radio or at parties. Some of his super famous songs include "Shape of You," "Thinking Out Loud," and "Perfect." These songs are like magic spells because they make you feel happy and sometimes a little bit sad. Ed's music is so awesome that he travels around the world to sing it for people. He goes on big adventures and "tours." Imagine getting to sing your favorite songs in front of lots of people in different countries. That's what Ed does!

People love Ed Sheeran so much that they call themselves "Sheerios" – like superheroes, but for Ed. They sing along at his concerts, make fan art, and even dress like him sometimes. It's like a big fan club! Ed has won lots of awards for his music, like Grammys. That's like getting a gold star in music! It means he's really, really good at making songs that make people happy.

So, Ed Sheeran is like a musical superhero who makes amazing songs, travels the world, and has fans everywhere. Now, let's get inspired by him and make our own music!

Why Become a Tribute Act?

You might be thinking, "Why would anyone want to be like Ed Sheeran?" Well, there are some cool reasons. First, it's a way to say, "Hey, Ed Sheeran, I love your music!" Second, it's super fun to sing and play his songs for others. And third, it makes people happy and lets them enjoy their favorite tunes even more.

Following in the footsteps of Ed Sheeran, many artists have embarked on the journey of becoming a tribute act, capturing the essence of the original performer. But have you ever wondered what drives the immense popularity of these acts? Dive deep into the world of music and discover why tribute bands are popular, resonating with fans across generations.

Becoming a tribute act means you really, really like Ed Sheeran's songs. It's like having a big sign that says, "I'm a fan!" You get to dress up like him, sing like him, and play guitar like him. It's a way to say thanks for all the awesome music he makes.

Imagine being on a stage with lights all around and people cheering for you. That's what tribute acts do. They perform Ed's songs and make the crowd smile. It's like having a super fun party every time you perform.

When you sing Ed Sheeran's songs, you make people happy. They sing along and dance. It's like sharing a big bowl of ice cream with friends. Everyone's happy, and the world feels like a better place. Tribute acts help people get closer to the music they love. Not everyone can go to Ed Sheeran's concert, but they can see a tribute act performed. It's like having a piece of the concert magic right in your town.

Finding Your Inner Ed

To be a popular musician or tribute singer, you have to find your inner Ed Sheeran. That means getting to know his music, how he dresses, and how he acts on stage. Here's what you can do:

Listen and Watch: Start by listening to Ed Sheeran's songs and watching his shows. This helps you understand how he sings and plays guitar. You'll notice how he makes people happy with his music.

Copy His Voice: Try to sing like Ed Sheeran. Practice matching his voice and the way he sings his songs. It's like learning a fun new song.

Move Like Ed: Watch how Ed moves when he's on stage. Does he dance? Does he interact with the crowd? Try to do those things, too. It's like dancing at a party!

Dress the Part: Ed has a unique style. He often wears cool T-shirts, jeans, and sometimes a hoodie. Dressing like him helps you look the part of a tribute act.

Be Confident: Ed Sheeran is confident when he performs. Believe in yourself and your ability to make people happy with your music.

Practice, Practice, Practice

To be an awesome tribute act, you've got to practice a lot. Here's what you need to do:

Sing and Play: Keep practicing Ed Sheeran's songs until you can sing and play them perfectly. It's like solving a musical puzzle.

Mirror Time: Stand in front of a mirror while you practice. This helps you work on your cool moves and facial expressions. It's like your own private concert!

Audience Fun: Don't be shy! Practice in front of your friends and family. They're like your very first fans. It's great to see how they react to your performance.

Repeat, Repeat: Keep practicing, even if you make mistakes. Ed Sheeran had to practice a lot, too. The more you practice, the better you'll get.

Have Fun: Remember, it's not just about being perfect. It's also about having fun. Sing and play with all your heart, and the audience will love it!

Building Your Repertoire

To be a fantastic tribute act, you need a list of Ed Sheeran's songs to perform. Here's how to build it:

Hit Songs: Begin with Ed's biggest hits like "Shape of You," "Thinking Out Loud," and "Photograph." These songs are like musical treasures!

Practice Makes Perfect: Keep practising these songs until you can sing and play them really well. It's like learning to ride a bike – it gets easier with practice.

Add More: Once you feel comfy with those hits, you can add more Ed Sheeran songs to your list. Maybe try "Castle on the Hill" or "Galway Girl." The more songs you know, the more fun your show can be!

Ask Fans: You can even ask your friends or family which Ed Sheeran songs they love. It's like getting secret song tips from your biggest fans!

Stay Updated: Don't forget to keep up with Ed's new songs. He's always making fresh music, and fans love to hear the latest hits.

Conclusion

So there you have it, a simple guide to becoming a tribute act in the footsteps of Ed Sheeran. It's all about embracing your love for his music, practicing your skills, and connecting with your audience. Whether you're performing at local venues or dreaming of bigger stages, remember that being a tribute act is a fantastic way to pay homage to a great artist while sharing the joy of music with others. So pick up that guitar, start practicing, and let your inner Ed Sheeran shine!

HELENA – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking public comment on two environmental assessments (EAs). For more information, including how to submit comments, click on the link provided or visit fwp.mt.gov/public-notices.

Clearwater Fishing Access Site EA

The Clearwater Crossing Fishing Access Site is in the Blackfoot drainage along the Clearwater River, 30 miles east of Bonner on Highway 200. It is managed by FWP and is a highly popular site. Clearwater Crossing is used heavily by the public for river access and camping. The site is 16 acres in size and includes a day use area, one latrine, a pioneered hand launch, six campsites, and a gravel boat ramp with an undefined parking area.

The original design of the site located the camps directly in the riparian area of the Clearwater River. This has caused erosion and a corresponding decrease in streamside vegetation. There is a more suitable location for these campsites within the FAS boundaries. The project proposal would move the six campsites to the east into the treed area. The previous location of the campsites should be revegetated to improve aesthetics and stream health. A defined parking area for users of the boat ramp would also improve site vegetation and reduce erosion.

Comments due Oct. 10.

Arrington Ranch LLC Private Pond License Review Draft EA

A private landowner is applying for a private fish pond license and proposes to stock rainbow trout in an unnamed private pond.

Comments due Oct. 13.

Laughlin Holdings Ranch LLC Pond License Review Draft EA

A private landowner is applying for a Private Fish Pond License and proposes to stock rainbow trout in an unnamed private pond.

Comments due Oct. 13.

Double C Ranch Holding LLC Private Pond License Review Draft EA

A private landowner is applying for a private fish pond license and proposes to stock westslope cutthroat trout in an unnamed private pond.

Comments due Oct. 13.

Translocation of Marten to the Bridger, Snowy, and Crazy mountains Draft EA

FWP proposes to re-establish or augment self-sustaining marten populations in portions of their historic range in central Montana. This project’s objective is to increase species diversity and facilitate marten range expansion back into the mountains of central Montana.

Comments due Oct. 14.

Lander Dam Fish Stocking Draft Checklist EA

FWP is proposing stocking fish in Lander Dam, a private pond near Baker in Fallon County. Public access to fishing in eastern Montana is limited, and private ponds stocked by FWP through our regional ponds program increases public fishing opportunity. Due to the abundance of interest in fishing, and the current lack of public access, recreational opportunities are cherished.

A draft EA checklist has been prepared and is available for comment. 

Comments due Oct. 15.

On Bozeman’s south side, homes in Montana’s first co-housing community are ready and residents are moving in. “It’s been a long process, but we’re excited that our vision is becoming reality,” said co-founder, Kathleen Owkes.

The development began in 2019 when Kathleen and Mark Owkes joined forces with Erik Bonnett to create a community of privately owned homes centered around shared common areas.  They envisioned spontaneous interactions and mutual support among neighbors who share a dedication to small-footprint, environmentally focused living.

Erik Bonnet was the lead architect. “The project is socially and environmentally groundbreaking. A net-zero community of this size is truly innovative, and it’s the first cohousing community in the northern Mountain West. The first of both in the region, in fact. That’s worth celebrating.”

Megan and Chad Welborn became members knowing that their daughter will have safe unstructured playtime with other kids in the community. “We’ve already developed personal relationships with our neighbors.  We know we’ll be there for each other and look out for all of our kids.”

Bozeman Cohousing provides a home base for Peter and Nancy Bryant’s retirement in Bozeman where their daughter and family live.  A future community- shared woodworking shop is of special interest to Peter. Nancy is excited about her involvement in designing and installing a landscape of native plants.

Community members will have the option to prepare and share community meals in the Common House, participate in spontaneous and planned activities with their neighbors, or just relax and enjoy the views of Frog Rock, Bridger Ridge, and Mt Ellis. 

While opportunities for social engagement abound, members’ privately-owned homes provide a space for pursuing one’s own interests and way of life.  Bozeman Co-housing homes are like any others in that way.  “I really like the community interactions and spontaneous activities. And I like having my own private home to come back to,” said Erika Share.  “It’s not just a neighborhood for extroverts. It’s a neighborhood for everyone.”

To learn more about Bozeman Cohousing and stay informed about a future open house, visit bozemancohousing.com 

My resumé of Montana travels is strongest around Bozeman, and in southwest Montana in general. Been there, done that, in the mountains, valleys, canyons, and rivers. It is also extensive to the west and north, camping and exploring from here to the Idaho and Canadian borders. It is respectable along the I-90 corridor east and south to Wyoming. In addition, I have made a few trips to Glendive, Glasgow, Fort Peck, and Fort Union. Even driven parts of the Highline. But in the vast middle of the state, east of Lewistown, west of Miles City, north of Billings, and south of Malta, not so much. There are entire counties, whole grids on the atlas that I’ve not yet explored. Earlier this year, discovering some more of that area became a project to be undertaken.

By May, certainly June, I am ready to get outside. But from hard experience, I know that the mountains are still in winter mode. Postholing trails deep in snow wearing shorts is interesting but not necessarily fun. Better to head to the sunny plains. Our plan was to drive to Lewistown, gather some information, then head north into the Missouri Breaks. We thought that the American Prairie Visitor Center would be a good place to get some ideas. I got online to check their hours and found that Ken Burns was going to be there the next day. He would be giving a talk about his latest project, The American Buffalo.

Wow! The most renowned documentary filmmaker in the country, coming to Montana for a free presentation. Our plan had been to spend the day ‘summerizing’ the camper, packing and provisioning, then leave in the morning. Instead, my wife Ruth made hotel reservations in Lewistown, we jumped in the car, and left within an hour.

Ken Burns has been producing documentary films since the 1980s. His American history topics are as varied as the Civil War, Baseball, Jazz, and the National Parks. His technique of still photographs and vintage film interspersed with experts commentating on the subjects has become familiar and iconic in our culture. Burns’ list of accolades and awards covers an entire page on Wikipedia. He would be appearing at the American Prairie Center. We were on our way.

We had spent time in Lewistown when our nephew played in a state baseball tournament there a few years ago. I had heard the town praised as; “What Bozeman used to be.” I could see no connection at all. Bozeman is first and last a college town, and an outpost on the Interstate 90 cultural corridor that runs west to Missoula and then to the coast. Also, Bozeman serves as a gateway to Yellowstone and Big Sky, and many other recreational activities. Lewistown, on the other hand, is very isolated, the largest town in that vast area mentioned earlier, central Montana. It serves as a hub for myriad agricultural pursuits in several counties. It has a small town feel with a busy vibe.

As we approached Lewistown from the west, we noticed that the US 87/ MT 200 highways were lined with farm implements, and we passed farm-related businesses that make the community an agricultural hub. On the right, the Kiwanis Park is great for camping, and for views of the Big Snowy Range to the south. A jog in the road brings one down the hill onto Main Street (kinda like Bozeman). We were booked into the Calvert Hotel, a historic building just off downtown. Originally built as a dorm for high school students from the farms and ranches in the countryside, the Calvert has been a hotel for close to one hundred years. We enjoyed the old feel combined with modern amenities. Lewistown has a great trail system and a number of parks with towering cottonwoods. We explored them during our quick stay but first walked along Main Street, browsing the shops.

The American Prairie Visitor Center is located in a renovated stone building on Main Street. This seems to fit in with the community more than would a new facility somewhere on the outskirts. We toured the center and confirmed the times for the Burns presentation the following day. American Prairie’s mission is to restore an area of land to a previous ecosystem that existed for thousands of years. The plan involves purchasing and leasing land to link up the already extensive preserves of the Missouri Breaks National Monument and the CMR Wildlife Refuge with other public land. A large part of the proposal is the reintroduction of wild buffalo to the land. This specific portion of their goal, along with the overall project, has caused controversy with local ranchers and others. An initial issue of the possibility of disease spreading from the bison to cattle seems to have been solved by monitoring and vaccination of the herd, plus the absence of any of these problems in other areas where buffalo and cattle have cohabited in commercial operations. Those we spoke to at the center were very aware of the impact of their vision. They possessed an attitude of cooperation rather than coercion. They have introduced programs to help ranchers, rather than hinder their already difficult profession. Most importantly, they spoke of their jobs on the land; though they were in the building to prepare for the presentation, they longed to be at work outside.

That evening we walked the streets and trails of Lewistown. It began to rain, a series of spring showers that continued into the night, and intermittently throughout the following day. I realized that my original plan to camp would have been impossible. The roads up in the Breaks are gumbo. At times, people have been stuck for days. In town was the place to be. In the morning, the Calvert provided a delicious breakfast buffet in their basement dining room, always a plus for me.

Ken Burns was accompanied by his longtime collaborator, Julie Dunfey, and by Dayton Duncan. In the early 1980s, Duncan had traveled the Lewis and Clark Trail in a van, and had written the book Out West. I had been interested in the Expedition in college and had written a couple of term papers on that subject. Reading Duncan’s book had brought that interest back for me years later, and it has never waned. I felt that he was a kindred spirit. He had begun working with Ken Burns on the Lewis and Clark film; the two of them had written and collaborated on many other projects.

When we arrived at the visitor center, there were less than two hundred people gathered. There were several showings of a trailer for the film that lasted about ten minutes. It featured familiar Burns themes. There were majestic scenery shots of the prairie and the Missouri country, and film of the buffalo herds on the land. Intimate talks from experts in the field including Native Americans and wildlife scientists followed. Afterward, we all filed into the Clyde Aspevig Event Center, which displays a huge painting of the prairie by this world famous artist, a Montana native. Aspevig had also come for the presentation.

On the dais, Ken, Julie, and Dayton were seated, and spoke informally. Ken stated that the story of the American Buffalo comprised three eras; first, the historic development of the species and the interaction of the buffalo and the Indian until the demise of both in the 1880s; second, the task undertaken by varied persons to save the buffalo from extinction, and, lastly, the future. His film covers the first two periods. The future, he said, is up to the public and organizations like American Prairie. There was a humorous dialogue between Dayton Duncan and Burns as Duncan explained why the film used the word buffalo rather than the official scientific name, bison. He spoke at length, and Burns wryly admonished his too long, too technical monologue. It was fun to listen to their interaction.

The Ken Burns documentary film, The American Buffalo airs on PBS on October 16th, 2023. Viewers will benefit from his unique combination of entertainment and education. The film can also provide a forum for evaluating the mission of American Prairie. One of their objectives is complete public access to all of these lands.

After the presentation, I did something I rarely do. I approached Dayton Duncan, introduced myself and praised his book for the positive effect it had for me. We shook hands and I turned to go. Ken Burns was a foot away, I smiled and walked away; bothering one person a day is my limit. We left Lewistown that afternoon, enjoying the rolling green look of the spring prairie as we drove home to Bozeman. I was already planning a trip up into the Missouri Breaks when the rains passed.

Whether you're an avid swimmer, an aquatic athlete, or just someone who loves a day at the beach, the right footwear can make all the difference. Designed specifically for water-based activities, aqua shoes offer a plethora of benefits ranging from enhanced protection to better swimming performance. In this post, we'll dive deeper into the world of this footwear, outlining how they've revolutionized the aquatic experience.

Enhanced Protection
When engaged in water-based activities, whether it's swimming near a rocky coast or simply strolling on a pebbly beach, feet are vulnerable to sharp, often unseen hazards. Water shoes serve as a safety barrier, guarding against potential injuries caused by jagged rocks, shards of shells, or even broken glass below the waterline.

 
Fortified soles provide an added defense against harmful organisms that thrive in aquatic environments. The water you're wading in might teem with microorganisms, posing the risk of fungal infections or other skin conditions. Pools, for example, are a common breeding ground for athlete's feet, while natural water bodies could harbor parasites. Swimming shoes significantly reduce the risk, providing a safe barrier between your feet and the watery world beneath. You can find a wide variety of these shoes at https://threo.nz/t/aqua-shoes/ and make an informed decision about the best fit for your aquatic adventures.

Improved Grip and Traction
Stepping onto a wet or slippery surface while engaging in aquatic activities can pose a risk of slips or falls, potentially leading to injuries. Aqua shoes, with their specially designed, non-slip soles, excellently address this issue. The high grip they offer can make a significant difference when walking on slick pool decks, rocky riverbeds, or the sleek surface of a boat. Operating much like the tread on your car's tires, the textured soles provide the traction needed to navigate securely over slippery terrains.

Increased Comfort
Their specially designed build ensures a snug fit, hugging your feet without restricting movement. The materials used in aqua shoe production are typically lightweight and breathable, facilitating ease of movement both in and out of the water. Additionally, specially designed footbeds provide supportive padding, helping to alleviate stress and tension on your feet during prolonged water activities. This cushioning effect serves a dual purpose: it eliminates discomfort and reduces fatigue, allowing swimmers to fully enjoy their water activity for a more extended period.

Swimming Performance
Interestingly, their streamlined design has the potential to enhance a swimmer's speed in the water. Their snug fit and lightweight materials help minimize drag, an important factor in maintaining or elevating one's swimming pace. Another aspect to explore is endurance. The supportive design and comfort of swim shoes can help reduce foot fatigue, enabling you to engage in water activities for longer durations. This extended comfort can result in improved overall stamina and further enhance your enjoyment of the water. Additionally, the stability provided by the strong grip of this footwear cannot be overlooked, especially in activities that require balance, such as stand-up paddleboarding or water aerobics. By firmly anchoring your feet, they allow for confident maneuvers and movements.


Temperature Regulation
Wetsuit socks, fabricated with insulating materials, offer a valuable solution for swimmers braving colder waters. Thermal properties inherent in these footwear options confer an additional layer of protection, safeguarding against the chill frequently experienced in less temperate bodies of water.

Versatility
Swim shoes stand out in their flexibility, catering to a wide array of activities beyond just swimming. Whether you are participating in water-based activities like snorkeling and kayaking or land-based outdoor activities like hiking and trail running, they have your feet covered, literally. Their unique design combines features like quick-dry materials and sturdy soles that work well on both wet and dry terrains. If your aquatic adventure calls for transitioning between water and land frequently, swimming shoes shine by providing an effortless switch.

 
For instance, during beach outings, the transition from sandy shores to salty waters is made seamless. They mitigate the need for switching shoes or going barefoot over potentially rough or hot surfaces. In bustling locales like water parks and public pools, these beach shoes offer an additional layer of safety. Wet, tiled surfaces pose a slipping risk, but the soles of footwear provide traction.

Therapeutic Applications
A less-known but incredibly valuable application of water shoes lies within the field of therapy and rehabilitation. Specifically, in aquatic therapy, they have proven remarkably useful. The water resistance and added balance they offer can play a pivotal role in conducting safe and effective rehabilitation exercises, especially for individuals recovering from surgeries or injuries. Furthermore, for individuals with mobility issues or special needs, their anti-slip properties can significantly reduce the risk of accidents, providing a safer and more reassuring environment. In addition to this, they also serve well in facilitating low-impact water exercises for seniors, ensuring a secure footing and reducing strain on joints.

In conclusion, aqua shoes offer a wealth of benefits that greatly enhance the swimming experience. From providing essential protection against unseen hazards underwater to augmenting grip and traction on slippery surfaces, they serve as a versatile asset. All these elements combine to elevate the experience of any water-related activity beyond the ordinary. Investing in a pair can bring about major improvements in safety, performance, and overall enjoyment, making them indispensable to any water enthusiast.

GARDINER – A hunter killed a grizzly bear Tuesday in an encounter in Beattie Gulch, an area north of Gardiner.

The hunter was reportedly charged by the bear before shooting and killing the bear at close range in self-defense. The hunter was not injured.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks received a report of the incident the same day. FWP staff and staff from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, U.S. Forest Service, and National Park Service visited the site and confirmed the bear mortality. An animal carcass was found nearby, and FWP bear specialists and game wardens determined the bear was likely acting defensively.

This incident is still under investigation by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.

Be bear aware

Montana is bear country. Grizzly bear populations continue to become denser and more widespread in Montana, increasing the likelihood that residents and recreationists will encounter them in more places each year.

This time of year is when bears are active for longer periods as they consume more food in preparation for hibernation. This period overlaps with hunting season and other fall recreation activities.

Avoiding conflicts with bears is easier than dealing with conflicts. Here are some precautions to help residents, recreationists and people who work outdoors avoid negative bear encounters:

• Carry bear spray and practice to be prepared to use it immediately.
• Make noise to alert bears to your presence and travel in groups.
• Stay away from animal carcasses, which often attract bears.
• Follow food storage orders from the applicable land management agency.
• Keep garbage, bird feeders, pet food and other attractants put away in a secure building. Keep garbage in a secure building until the day it is collected. Certified bear-resistant garbage containers are available in many areas.
• Never feed wildlife. Bears that become food conditioned lose their natural foraging behavior and pose threats to human safety. It is illegal to feed bears in Montana.
• If you are attacked by a bear and you are without a deterrent or the deterrent hasn’t worked, stay face down on the ground, protecting your face and neck with your arms. Stay still until you’re certain the bear has moved away. 

People who hunt in places that have or may have grizzly bears—which includes areas of Montana west of Billings—should take special precautions:

• Carry bear spray and practice to be prepared to use it immediately.
• Look for bear sign and be cautious around creeks and areas with limited visibility.
• Hunt with a group of people. Making localized noise can help alert bears to your presence.
• Be aware that elk calls and cover scents can attract bears.
• Bring the equipment and people needed to help field dress game and remove the meat from the kill site as soon as possible.
• If you need to leave part of the meat in the field during retrieval, hang it at least 10 feet off the ground and at least 150 yards from the gut pile. Leave it where it can be observed from a distance of at least 200 yards.
• Upon your return, observe the meat with binoculars. If it has been disturbed or if a bear is in the area, leave and call FWP.

Grizzly bears in the lower 48 states are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. Management authority for grizzlies rests with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, working closely in Montana with FWP, the Forest Service, the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the U.S. Geological Survey, Wildlife Services, and Native American tribes. This collaboration happens through the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee.

For more information and resources on bear safety, visit fwp.mt.gov/bear-aware.

An exhibition featuring the work of Barbra Van Cleve's work is set to open at the Museum of the Rockies. Photo provided.

BOZEMAN – The Museum of the Rockies at Montana State University has announced the opening of two exhibitions, "Unbridled Spirit: The Photography of Barbara Van Cleve" and "Zoo in You: The Human Microbiome," running from Sept. 30 to Jan. 7, 2024.

Museum members can attend a preview of both exhibits Friday, Sept. 29, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., where they can explore Barbara Van Cleve’s works and delve into the world of the human microbiome before the exhibitions open to the public.

In addition to the new exhibits, the museum will hold "Zoo in You Family Day" on Saturday, Sept. 30, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event is a celebration of the human microbiome and will feature activities, exhibits and educational programs for all ages.

“Unbridled Spirit: The Photography of Barbara Van Cleve” asks visitors to step into the world of beauty and tradition of the American West through the lens of internationally acclaimed photographer Van Cleve, whose connection to ranching began at birth in Montana’s Crazy Mountains at the Lazy K Bar Ranch. Her photography has garnered global recognition and has been featured in over 60 solo exhibitions nationwide and beyond. On display with her photographs will be ranching artifacts from Van Cleve and the museum’s collections.

“Zoo in You: The Human Microbiome” invites visitors to explore the complex world of the human microbiome and to discover who our microbial companions are, where they live, their diversity and how scientists are learning their importance to human health. Produced by the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, “Zoo in You” was made possible by a Science Education Partnership Award from the National Institute of Health.

Both exhibitions are included with museum membership or general museum admission.

For more information, visit www.museumoftherockies.org or call 406-994-2251.

HELENA, MT — Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Montana (BCBSMT) and National Fitness Campaign are increasing access to fitness and reducing barriers to physical and mental health by collaborating to bring free, outdoor Fitness Courts® to communities across Montana.

BCBSMT is contributing $250,000 in grants to help fund 10 new Fitness Courts across the state. The sites will begin construction as early as fall 2024 with the goal of being available for use in spring 2025.

“Starting physical activity and staying active is at the heart of our physical and mental well-being, and it’s a fundamental driver in our quest to help positively influence Montana’s population health,” said John Doran, Divisional Vice President of External Affairs at BCBSMT. “That’s why we are so grateful for the opportunity to join the National Fitness Campaign to bring free and accessible outdoor physical fitness sites to communities throughout our great state. Together, we can continue our work to make Montana a healthier place to live, work, and play.”

The Fitness Court is the world’s best outdoor gym that lets people use their own body weight to get a complete workout using seven exercise stations. Created with people aged 14 and over and with all abilities in mind, the workouts are adaptable for all fitness levels, allowing participants to move at their own pace. Users may also download the free Fitness Court App which acts as a coach-in-your-pocket and enhances the outdoor gym into a digitally supported wellness experience.

“The National Fitness Campaign is proud to welcome BCBSMT as they join the growing network of leading healthcare partners across the country prioritizing equitable fitness across their state,” said Mitch Menaged, founder of the National Fitness Campaign. “This program will deliver tremendous resources to contribute to the important mission of improving health outcomes as the network of Fitness Courts grows across Montana. We look forward to working with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Montana to make this campaign a great success.”

Municipalities, schools, and other organizations in Montana can apply for grant funding through National Fitness Campaign to assist in joining the campaign. National Fitness Campaign works with grant recipients to assist in planning, funding, and launching their Fitness Court and community wellness programming.

Grant applications are currently being accepted. To learn more about funding, visit nationalfitnesscampaign.com/montana.